Five Fishermen Rescued In BIG ROCK Day 5 Boat Fire

Michael

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Post on Jun 14, 2025

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Five Fishermen Rescued After Dramatic Day 5 Boat Fire off Big Rock

Dramatic rescue unfolds as Coast Guard saves five fishermen from a burning vessel near Big Rock.

The waters off Big Rock witnessed a harrowing scene yesterday as a fishing boat, engulfed in flames on its fifth day at sea, was met with a swift and successful rescue operation by the United States Coast Guard. Five fishermen, initially reported missing, were pulled from the burning vessel, suffering from smoke inhalation and minor injuries but thankfully alive. The incident highlights the inherent dangers faced by commercial fishermen and the crucial role of rapid emergency response.

A Race Against Time: The Boat Fire Near Big Rock

The alarm was raised late Tuesday afternoon when the Coast Guard received a distress signal from the Sea Serpent, a 40-foot fishing trawler known to operate in the Big Rock fishing grounds. Initial reports indicated a fire had broken out in the engine room, quickly spreading throughout the vessel. The five crew members, all experienced fishermen, had attempted to contain the blaze but were ultimately overwhelmed by the rapidly intensifying flames and thick smoke.

The location, approximately 20 nautical miles off Big Rock, presented significant challenges. The Sea Serpent was far enough offshore to make a conventional rescue operation difficult and time-sensitive. However, the Coast Guard’s swift response, aided by a nearby commercial vessel, proved decisive.

Heroic Rescue: Coast Guard and Good Samaritans Unite

A Coast Guard helicopter, dispatched from Air Station [Insert Air Station Location], arrived on the scene within 45 minutes of receiving the distress call. Simultaneously, the Ocean Voyager, a nearby cargo ship, altered its course to assist in the rescue. The helicopter crew lowered a rescue swimmer, who secured the five fishermen and hoisted them to safety. They were then transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

"It was a truly collaborative effort," stated Lieutenant Commander [Insert Name and Title], the Coast Guard officer overseeing the operation. "The quick response of our crew, coupled with the selfless assistance of the Ocean Voyager, undoubtedly saved these men's lives."

The Aftermath and Investigation

The Sea Serpent is now a total loss, sinking shortly after the rescue operation concluded. An investigation into the cause of the fire is currently underway, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible engine malfunction. Authorities are exploring all possibilities to determine the exact cause and prevent future similar incidents. This underscores the importance of regular vessel maintenance and safety checks for all commercial fishing boats.

Key takeaways from this incident:

• The importance of distress signals: The timely transmission of a distress signal was crucial in ensuring a rapid response.
• The vital role of the Coast Guard: Their swift and efficient response saved five lives.
• The power of collaboration: The cooperation between the Coast Guard and the Ocean Voyager highlights the importance of teamwork in maritime rescue operations.
• The need for rigorous safety protocols: Regular maintenance and adherence to safety regulations are paramount in preventing such tragedies.

This dramatic rescue serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who work in the fishing industry. We commend the bravery of the Coast Guard crew and the Ocean Voyager crew and wish the rescued fishermen a speedy recovery. For more information on maritime safety, visit [Link to relevant Coast Guard website].